St. Mary's Catholic Schools
Mission Statement
Saint Mary's Catholic Schools strives for a united community of academic excellence and
stewardship by embracing the Gospel and carrying the light of Christ.
Our Crest
Together, these icons visually express the mission and vision of St. Mary's Catholic Schools.
Cross
The Cross represents Jesus Christ and His
sacrificial love at the heart of our Catholic faith. Its placement signifies that Christ is central to the mission and vision of St. Mary’s Catholic Schools.
Bible with the Alpha and Omega
Reflects St. Mary’s Catholic Schools commitment to forming students in God’s Word and Gospel values.
Monstrance of the Eucharist
Emphasizes Christ is truly present in the school community through worship and the sacraments.
“M” for Mary with a Crown
The crowned “M” honors the Blessed Virgin
Mary, patroness of the school and sponsoring
parish. The school’s mission is to form students who strive to imitate Mary’s virtues.
Praying Hands with a Rosary
Praying hands with a rosary symbolize a life rooted in prayer and devotion. The rosary also highlights a special devotion to Mary as a guide in faith.
St. Mary's Catholic Schools School SonG
"On St. Mary"
To the tune of "On Wisconsin"
On St. Mary! On St. Mary!
You’re the school so grand!
You’re the one we love the best in all this mighty land!
RAH! RAH! RAH!
On St. Mary! On St. Mary!
We will cheer for you!
We’re backing you so
FIGHT! FIGHT! FIGHT!
For St. Mary High!
Our Mascot
Cardinal
Our Cardinal mascot represents the bold spirit, unwavering faith, and strong sense of community that define who we are. With its striking red, black, and gold features, the Cardinal embodies courage, determination, and excellence in all we do. The cross with SMCS at the heart of our logo reminds us of our foundation in faith and our commitment to growing in wisdom, love, and service. Together, we strive to soar to new heights while staying grounded in our values.
Our Patron - St. Mary
St. Mary, our school patron, serves as a model of faith, humility, and unwavering trust in God. Her example inspires our students to live with compassion, courage, and a servant’s heart in all they do. As a community rooted in Catholic values, we look to Mary as a guiding presence who leads us closer to Christ through prayer, kindness, and love for others. At St. Mary’s, we strive to follow her example by nurturing the whole person and building a community grounded in faith, excellence, and service.
Mary’s “yes” to God reminds us of the importance of faithfulness, even in moments of uncertainty and challenge. Through her example, our students learn the value of perseverance, humility, and placing their trust in God’s plan. We encourage our school community to reflect Mary’s virtues in everyday life by serving others, showing compassion, and treating every person with dignity and respect.
As our patroness, St. Mary remains at the heart of our mission and identity. Her presence is woven into the traditions, prayers, and daily life of our school, reminding us that faith is not only something we learn, but something we live. Guided by her example, we are committed to fostering a welcoming and supportive environment where students are encouraged to grow academically, spiritually, and personally.
Our Parish
St. Mary's Catholic Church
At the heart of our school community is St. Mary's Parish, a vibrant Catholic parish that has served families in Dell Rapids and rural communities for more than a century. We are proud to be the only Pre-K through 12 Catholic school system in the Diocese of Sioux Falls solely supported by one parish. The parish works hand-in-hand with St. Mary's Catholic School to nurture students spiritually, academically, and personally. Through weekly Mass, the sacraments, prayer, and opportunities to serve others, students are encouraged to grow in their relationship with Christ while becoming compassionate leaders in their community. Together, the parish and school create a welcoming family atmosphere where faith is lived daily and the light of Christ shines in all we do.
